If you ask anyone in your life to name the best locksmith around, you will likely get a blank stare instead of an answer. Few people are truly prepared. Don’t be one of those left standing on the outside looking in at your nice, warm house. This guide will assist you in selecting the proper locksmith.
Even if you think you will never need the services of a locksmith, it is best to be prepared. Research and find a professional locksmith before you need one. You can save the locksmith’s phone number so you have it ready to go if there is an emergency.
Get a receipt. The majority of locksmiths are honest individuals, but a few out there do try to scam people. You will want to get quality service and have paperwork to back it up. Keep the receipt inside a secure place in case there are questions about payment in the future.
If a locksmith quotes you one price by phone, then tries to up the price upon arrival, tell them you will do business with someone else. It is best to hire a locksmith that is honest and upfront.
When you make an initial inquiry to a locksmith, ask about their business history. Additionally, ascertain they’ve always operated from the same location. If the company has been around for several years, that’s good news.
Be sure to check the identification of any locksmith you plan to hire. Tell them over the phone and ensure they agree. If they disagree, don’t hire them.
Ask any locksmith you are considering how long they’ve been in business. If it’s been a long time, then they are most likely trustworthy and reliable. Make sure that you do not trust a locksmith right off the bat.
Don’t hire the first locksmith you speak to. You should be calling at least three or more locksmiths before deciding on which one to hire. This will help you understand what the going rate is. Once you do figure this out, you are going to be able to make an informed decision about who is charging fairly.
Don’t hire a locksmith that charges for making an appearance. This is not common practice, so you’re most likely dealing with a scam artist. If you find out that he does not have a license and he still wants to pay, ask him to leave, then call the police.
Good locksmiths can do more than change door locks. They can help change your window locks if you’ve been burglarized before. Some might even reconfigure your alarm system.
Before allowing a locksmith to begin working, inspect their I.D. and professional license. Be sure to compare the two so that you know the person on the license is the person standing in front of you. A locksmith that is good will have a license, even if it isn’t required.
Until they need a locksmith, most people don’t think twice about finding someone reputable. Unfortunately, that leaves you open to a number of scams. Prepare yourself ahead of time by using this advice to find a great locksmith. You won’t be sorry you did!